Job Summary

NIST is seeking a postdoctoral scholar to conduct experimental and theoretical research on Rydberg atom containing vapor cells, interactions between alkali metals and vapor cell materials, and photonics integration for applications in radio frequency (RF) communications and quantum sensing. The researcher will focus on improving the sensor head in Rydberg atom-based sensors, specifically the containment package of alkali Rydberg atoms and electromagnetic field propagation through and interaction with that package. Experimental responsibilities may include designing, building, and troubleshooting lasers, optical, electronic, RF, and vacuum systems, designing and fabricating novel vapor cells, operating SEM, AFM, and Xray tools for surface studies, designing and integrating photonic devices, and developing software for data acquisition and analysis. The candidate will also be expected to understand how to develop and analyze atomic models of Rydberg systems and light-mater interaction models as well as conduct electromagnetic simulations.

This position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology's (NIST) Professional Research Experience Program (PREP). NIST recognizes that its research staff may want to collaborate with researchers at academic institutions on specific projects of mutual interest and, therefore, requires those institutions to be recipients of a PREP award. The PREP program involves staff from a wide range of backgrounds conducting scientific research across various fields. Individuals in this position will perform technical work supporting the collaboration's scientific research.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

• Design and perform experiments to advance our understanding of and performance of vapor cell packages for Rydberg atom sensors.
• Develop theoretical models of atomic systems, atomic sensors, light matter interactions, and compare these with experimental measurements.
• Keep a well-maintained log of experimental activities.
• Disseminate research through peer-reviewed journals, conferences, and other presentations.

What You Should Know

This position requires the successful completion of an NAIS agreement and federal security clearance as mandated by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Employment is contingent upon approval of these requirements as determined by NIST.

Anticipated start date is December 1, 2026. Anticipated end date is March 31, 2028.

What We Can Offer

• The salary range for the full-time Postdoctoral Associate position is $74,000 - $108,000 annually.
• The salary range for the full-time Research Associate position is $78,000 - $135,000 annually.
• Onboarding/relocation assistance may be available, however, if within a 12-month period you exercise your right to willfully terminate your employment with the University of Colorado, you hereby agree to reimburse the department for your relocation expense.

Benefits

At the University of Colorado Boulder , we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well-being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County's largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world-class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.

Be Statements

Be ambitious. Be pioneering. Be Boulder.

What We Require

• Postdoctoral Associate: A Doctorate's degree in Physics, Atomic Physics, Optics, Quantum Optics, or a related field with 0 - 4 years of post-doctoral degree experience .
• Research Associate: A Doctorate's degree in Physics, Atomic Physics, Optics, Quantum Optics, or a related field with 5+ years of post-doctoral degree experience .

What We Would Like You to Have

• 4+ years of relevant experience (including degree).
• Familiarity with atom-optical-molecular systems.
• Familiarity with photonics.
• Ability to work with, stabilize, and align laser systems.
• Familiarity with remote instrument communication (Python proficiency preferred).
• Ability to develop data analysis software (Python proficiency preferred).
• Strong oral and written communication skills in the English language.

Special Instructions

To apply, please submit the following materials:

1. Resume or CV
2. Cover letter addressed to the Search Committee briefly describing your qualifications, professional goals, and specific interest in this position.

If you are selected as the finalist, your degree will be verified by the CU Boulder Campus Human Resources Department using an approved online vendor. If your degree was obtained outside of the United States, please submit a translated version as an optional attachment.

During the application process, you will need to enter contact information for a reference. We will request the letter of recommendation immediately following your application.

Review of applications will begin immediately and remain open until September 22, 2026.

Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs.

In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.